<\/p>\n
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has criticised what it described as \u201creckless and uncivil behaviour\u201d by public officials, warning that such conduct undermines Nigeria\u2019s image and erodes public trust in governance.<\/p>\n
In a statement signed by Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), executive director of CISLAC and head of Transparency International (TI) Nigeria, the organisation said public office demands restraint, humility, and discipline \u2014 not arrogance or abuse of power.<\/p>\n
\u201cPublic officials are supposed to be civil and civilised in carrying out their responsibilities and must understand the code of conduct that guides public office,\u201d Rafsanjani said.<\/p>\n
CISLAC was reacting to a recent public altercation between Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), and a military officer, describing the incident as \u201cgross indiscipline and recklessness unbecoming of a public officer.\u201d<\/p>\n
The group said Wike\u2019s behaviour reflects \u201ca consistent pattern of arrogance and lack of emotional control,\u201d which it traced back to his tenure as governor of Rivers state.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe character and conduct exhibited by the FCT minister, from his time as a governor to his current role, show a pattern of recklessness and poor emotional control. Governance demands humility, restraint, and respect for institutional boundaries,\u201d the statement said.<\/p>\n
CISLAC also noted that over 52 civil society organisations had recently called for an impartial investigation into Wike over allegations of asset concealment, illicit enrichment, and breaches of Nigeria\u2019s asset declaration laws.<\/p>\n
The organisation said Wike\u2019s confrontation with the military officer was \u201creckless, disrespectful, and dangerous to national security,\u201d especially at a time when Nigeria is battling multiple internal threats.<\/p>\n
The group commended the officer involved for maintaining discipline despite provocation, saying his conduct reflected \u201cthe integrity and command ethics that define Nigeria\u2019s military.\u201d<\/p>\n